World’s First Known Written Word at Göbekli Tepe on T-Shaped Pillar 18 Means God

A groundbreaking analysis of Göbekli Tepe, a prehistoric megalithic site in southeastern Turkey, reveals that the T-shaped pillars may represent supernatural beings linked to the concept of 'god.' The study identifies an H-shaped carving on Pillar 18, bracketed by semi-circles, which bears striking resemblance to a Luwian hieroglyphic symbol meaning 'god.' This suggests a symbolic rather than purely practical purpose for such carvings. The research further connects T-shape iconography and an H-like symbol at Göbekli Tepe with Luwian symbols representing 'gate' and possibly bull-associated deities, implying these pillars guarded the entry to the afterlife. The findings propose that celestial imagery of the night sky inspired this theme, which was ritually celebrated by hunter-gatherer pilgrims and later spread across Anatolia, influencing language in the region for millennia.

Seyfzadeh, M., & Schoch, R. (2019). World’s First Known Written Word at G&;ouml;bekli Tepe on T-Shaped Pillar 18 Means God. Archaeological Discovery, 07(02), 31–53. https://doi.org/10.4236/ad.2019.72003